Then and Now (April 1, 2011)

A side-by-side comparison of the Sun from precisely two years ago (left,
from SOHO) to the present (right, from Solar Dynamics Observatory)
dramatically illustrates just how active the Sun has become (Mar. 27-28,
2011). Viewed in two similar wavelengths of extreme ultraviolet light,
the Sun now sports numerous active regions that appear as lighter areas
that are capable of producing solar storms. Two years ago the Sun was
in a very quiet period (solar minimum). The Sun?s maximum period of
activity is predicted to be around 2013, so we still have quite a ways
to go.

SOHO began its Weekly Pick some time after
sending a weekly image or video clip to the American Museum of Natural
History (Rose Center) in New York City. There, the SOHO Weekly Pick is
displayed with some annotations on a large plasma display.

If your institution would also like to receive the same Weekly Pick from us
for display (usually in Photoshop or QuickTime format), please send
your inquiry to steele.hill@gsfc.nasa.gov.